Sprinter Van Build : Bed | Garage | Floor

[@philwilliams23]

The simplest and best bed design I've seen to date. Amazing! Will definitely do the same. Thank you for your video. 🙂

[@hbsprinter]

Great idea for the 4x4 posts! I would have never thought to do that.

[@shaunwilkens]

So many ways to build these things out. I’m happy with them so far. Thanks!

[@vwsyncro]

My plan is aluminium extrusions and Ikea slats as well, cool to see someone actually do it. It'll be fun following you along on this build!

[@MohsenTabrizi]

Hi there, you made my day! In Germany I’m struggling how to let the “bed frame” or in your case to attach it to the 3by3 beams. And finally your video ended the nightmare, I’m going to attach it just like yours tomorrow early morning. You may hang out for a time-lapse video I’m going to do in about two months. Keep up the good job! Cheers!

[@shaunwilkens]

Glad it helped! Looking forward to that time lapse

[@danielschumacher9488]

Mohsen Tabrizi... Is there a good dealer to get 80/20 in germany? I cant find it at any of the local stores.

[@wonkywade]

So useful my friend! I’m doing most of the same equipment and I really appreciate you taking the time to make your videos. Weight off shoulders for real brother

[@RianSpaulding]

This is looking good! Really like that flooring!

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks dude!

[@028healey]

@@shaunwilkens did you insulate under the factory floor or not?

[@jonnylong]

Super solid dude. I want this van so bad, such high quality/craftsmanship.

[@shaunwilkens]

Feel free to come and borrow it!

[@lasharonbrown9454]

The 80/20 frame! Nice with the wood slats.

[@TheInsuranceDudes]

DUDE!!! GREAT INFORMATION!!!

[@jasonfrade1117]

Killer video! I'm really enjoying how much you're detailing each and every step you're taking and why you chose one product over another. Really excited to see you tackle the electrical and kitchen area.

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks Jason! It’s tiring to remember to film everything but it means a lot that the work is appreciated.

[@cyclingjoe7663]

Really nice, love the bike storage, clean neat job 👍

[@davidwoods5095]

Nice video and the work looks great! Thanks for sharing.

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks David!

[@max4296]

Hey Shaun! Getting ready to dive into my own build very soon so this video came at the perfect time. Very inspiring with lots of creative ideas. Looking forward to the next one!

[@shaunwilkens]

Looking forward to seeing your build man! I hope you’re documenting it.

[@max4296]

@@shaunwilkens Hey Shaun! Had a lot of life stuff get in the way of starting my build but I am well underway now. I just rewatched this video to get some bedframe ideas but I was also curious after seeing you install the floor: have you had any issues with buckling after mounting all of your cabinetry on top of it?

[@JoshSfaks]

Awesome video dude! Love the aluminum frame idea!

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks man!

[@JoshSfaks]

@@shaunwilkens What size Aluminum Extrusion did you use?

[@shaunwilkens]

ohmyJoshie I believe it’s the 60 series but it could be the 50. Since I got it second hand I’m not sure. They are about 2 inches across.

[@giddydigs9040]

Great bed build!

[@eyeswideshut2800]

finally someone used their ingenuity and didn't put stiff plywood or bulky and heavy 2by whatever. I kept thinking upholstery straps or just what you did, bed slats but maybe that's because I used to work in bed technology where sleep is everything.

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks! I definitely learned the hard way after my first build.

[@eyeswideshut2800]

@@shaunwilkens heat, moisture and no spinal alignment interrupt REM sleep and are the biggest problems in the sleep industry and our health.

[@wilkhe]

You are a master magician! I love the quality of your work!!

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks pops! Will be getting some help from you next time I’m home.

[@vinibisetto]

Cool videos, Shaun, congrats!

[@ZachChurch]

great video!

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks Zach!

[@RogerPerkin]

Hi, back to this video again building my bed! How did you fix the 4x4 beam to the van? I had originally bought the Ikea Skorva beams but couldn't see how to mount them higher than the centre strut The wood beam is a great solution

[@shaunwilkens]

I used black silicone and screws to fix it to the metal. I would probably just build out a couple of cabinets under the bed if I were doing it over again. I’d use the cabinets to support the bed

[@DannyTulu]

Great content! Really appreciate you sharing this as we are planning on doing the exact same thing with our van build. Good luck with the rest 😉

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks guys! Hope you’re documenting your build as well

[@1monagale]

great ideas

[@womswilkens1428]

Great work, Shaun!!

[@placestosea]

good to see you didn't use plywood, we used similar bed slats ( ikea) and after approx 2 years of use, no mould, less weight and affordable. you need to have air circulation around the bed.

[@RogerPerkin]

loving this build video, what's your reason for not insulating the floor?

[@shaunwilkens]

To really insulate the floor it would cost me some head room and I didn’t want to lose any of it.

[@max-zl1vm]

Great videos. Well done

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks Max!

[@madsen203]

I enjoy your videos. @Shaun Wilkens - what is the background music source for your videos? I think this is a nice touch and makes them more enjoyable to watch.

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks! I use Musicbed

[@madsen203]

Irony runs deep for this specific video. Thanks for info. Hope you enjoy the van! I’m picking up a used passenger van to do a light weight conversion. This bed design is fantastic and looks easier than L tracks.

[@sheermindforce]

I vill say for vone, it’s looking vantastic

[@shaunwilkens]

You must be a writer!

[@sheermindforce]

Shaun Wilkens yes, but more of a Vriter.

[@mygreenvan3004]

Hey Shaun- this bed is the answers to my headaches. Can you provide some detail about how you affixed the beam to the plywood wall? Planning mine currently and would appreciate the clarity. Thanks! Lindsey

[@shaunwilkens]

I used aluminum brackets to attach the aluminum frame to the 4x4 beams that supported the bed. There are some decent options on Amazon if you search for “4040 extrusion brackets “

[@CityArtTravel]

How did the floor hold up?

[@iamjamesmannion4853]

Ply and Froli no worries about mold!

[@ireeduibordukh8441]

Where did you buy aluminum extrusion

[@cedricmartin7924]

Excellent !

[@dayknowltonjr]

Dude good stuff I’m learning a lot

[@Veveve1]

which size aluminium extrusion did you use for the bed and does it sag with 2 people? thanks

[@jamesscott5910]

Love this idea, looks stronger and doesn't take up space from the floor to the ceiling. Can I ask where did you get your aluminium Extrusions from as I need lengths of 2000mm please. Also could I ask how heavy the whole frame is cause it looked easy to pick up and install.

[@shaunwilkens]

I don’t remember the weight but it is very light. I purchase my aluminum extrusion (T slots) from Bonnell Aluminum.

[@sebcbien263]

Hi Shaun, Could you please measure the thickness of your 80/20 profiles for the bed frame ? please please please 😁? I have to order them and you are the only one who got the setup for the bed I want to replicate. Below in the comments, you say : "I believe it was 45x45 but I’m not exactly sure". Would help me a lot to not order the wrong size (not available around, only costly shipping) Thanks a lot !

[@dexstewart2450]

If you were in Ikea, they do an adjustable metal bed support

[@evanfly]

Shaun, at the same point on my build. Could you be a little more specific on the 4x4's? Great idea, but how did you attach? What were the final dimensions of the cut down 4x4's at the end?

[@shaunwilkens]

It’s been a few years so I don’t remember any dimensions, unfortunately. I probably wouldn’t do it this way again. I’d probably frame two cabinets on either side of the bed and use them to support the bed.

[@ryankeogh9194]

Did you use any insulation on the floor besides the factory mat?

[@shaunwilkens]

No, I haven’t seen much of a difference with/without insulation in the floor if the insulation in the floor is compressed. I suppose if you built up the floor so the insulation can be lofty, it may make a difference but I wouldn’t want to take away from the interior height.

[@mitchellbarnow1709]

Really awesome bed frame design! I've got a slat bed with a breathable natural latex mattress. I would never buy one of those beds that come in a box, because those types of foams are pretty toxic and don't breathe.

[@shaunwilkens]

Where did you get your mattress?

[@shoshanae3830]

How thick of a mattress did you get and what vendor? I see u didn't answer Shaun yet.

[@Kimandlisa]

I love, love, love the idea of the 4x4 posts. I've been researching for weeks and after all of the l-track, cargo-track options I like your idea the best. How's the bed frame holding up??

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks! It held up well for as long as I had it. I sold the van after about a year. The construction was solid and I’m sure it will last for years to come.

[@wayoftheroads]

Hey Shaun, what did you use to secure the bed frame to the van wall? Thanks for any info. Sorry if you mentioned it in the video and I missed it haha

[@shaunwilkens]

Hey! I used a ton of sikaflex and the structure of the bed to hold it in place. I don’t use that method anymore. I would probably use rivnuts and a long bolt now.

[@allanpennington]

What size profile did you use?

[@jcramatowski4620]

Can you tell me where you got the aluminum extrusion pieces?

[@shaunwilkens]

I got them locally through a supplier. It would probably be best to either go to TSlot’s website or 80/20’s site and see what dealer is closest to you.

[@StonesSteppin]

You screwed your bed slats on the 80/20? I did the same and they are squeaking? Any tips?

[@shaunwilkens]

Shoot! I didn’t have that issue. Maybe put some red thread lock on the screw threads and see if they hold in place better

[@hasankadodia9752]

hi what are the dimensions of the extrusions. thanks

[@angiewick169]

AWESOME dude!!!!! Ready for that next video like, NOW!!!! :P)

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks Angie!

[@davidhopper1052]

How much space does the screen on the Flare window take up? I’ve never seen a screen on that type window before, I’ve heard they take up too much bed space

[@shaunwilkens]

It takes up just under 2 inches which is why I went with the extended flare on that side. If you have the screen open and push your pillow up against the window you notice the extra space. I’ve slept with my head poked a little out the window as well.

[@DarianHickman]

Does anybody know affordable sources for extruded aluminum?

[@shaunwilkens]

Best to find a local distributor to save on shipping cost

[@birdhouse4139]

Great job! Seems more realistic to follow you than some others. How did you attach the 4x4 to the van wall?

[@shaunwilkens]

Birdhouse Thanks! The 4x4s rest on the window cutout and the 1/2” siding. I also glued them down with Sikaflex.

[@danielledorren9429]

Hi, a great design and something we are looking at as well. We have been wondering about the 80/20 as we have only seen one comment on thermal bridges in relation to 80/20. I don't think I saw you put a thermal breaker in. Don't you think that one is required to ensure that there is no transfer of heat or cold through the 80/20 aluminium as it is bolted onto the car frame? Aluminium is one of the best conduits after copper after all.

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks Danielle! The frame sits on wooden 4x4s that act as a thermal barrier to the van walls

[@andko00201]

How are those bed mounts holding up that Meagan put up with drywall size screws? I was under the impression that I have to use plus nuts to hold anything. Please advise. Danke. p.s.looks amazing! :)

[@shaunwilkens]

The bed frame is resting on the 4x4s which are resting on the window cutouts. The brackets help ensure that the 4x4s stay in the windows cutouts. The pocket screws in the 1/2inch plywood help a little but aren’t taking the load. Plus nuts can be really effective, just make sure you get the right size for the vans thin metal as they can spin out if they compress all the way and the gap is too big.

[@goy1849]

1:14 how did you secure the 4x4 ?

[@shaunwilkens]

I glued and screwed it to the side wall. I also used sikaflex and glued it to the window cutouts too. The bed frame also keeps them in place.

[@goy1849]

@@shaunwilkens Awesome. I'm going to be following your bed build, and looking forward to seeing more 👍🏻 Thanks for the reply I should be getting my van in another month or so

[@bradwhite741]

This build is going to be so amazing! When is your next video going to come out?

[@shaunwilkens]

Soon young boy

[@winnyjstew]

why you get rid of the t1n?

[@shaunwilkens]

It was time for me to tackle a new project. I was open to getting a T1n but I wanted a shorter van then my 158. The 140 was a little smaller than I was looking for. I’ve heard the 4cly ncv3s are great so the 144wb 4cly fit me the best.

[@extramedium3920]

Did you use an aluminum cutting blade?

[@shaunwilkens]

I don’t remember. I probably used a fine blade for wood but cut slowly. Aluminum is pretty easy to cut.

[@justrobin1234]

I can't thank you enough for this video! Super straightforward and clear. Have you had any issues with condensation on the aluminium?

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks Robin! Nope, no condensation issues with the aluminum. It’s held up great!

[@minysmith9043]

Put chloroplast under the slats to keep air flow but separate bikes and gear stench from the matress

[@seanmchristen]

Where did you buy the extruded aluminum?

[@brandonwhite772]

Whats that on the roof of your van at 3:37?

[@shaunwilkens]

🤫

[@victoriagalvin3147]

How difficult was it to remove the slats from the ikea slat frame? I want to use them as well but not their original frame.

[@shaunwilkens]

It wasn’t hard at all. I think you just have to pop out a staple with a flathead screw driver

[@victoriagalvin3147]

Shaun Wilkens thanks!

[@scottschissel5692]

What type of aluminum did you use for bed frame and where did you get it?

[@findingcaroline2032]

Where did you buy your extrusions from? I'm having a hard time locating a decent option...

[@nmartin5551]

Amazon or contact 80/20(the brand name/manufacturer) directly

[@geezers10]

Good job. May I ask what are the profile dimensions of the aluminum extrusions?

[@shaunwilkens]

I believe it was 45x45 but I’m not exactly sure. They were given to me second hand. I’ll try to figure out exactly and update the description when I do.

[@kimberlyjones7050]

Great video. Very thorough and easy to follow. My only critique is it would be great if you gave a bit more detail on your materials ...such as the spray foam you sprayed over the wheel casing thing. (I tried to freeze the video to see the can name but still couldn't see it.) I think that this video is good enough for my husband and me to follow along and build out one of our Sprinter vans ourselves.) And where do you get those aluminum extrusion things from?

[@shaunwilkens]

I appreciate the feedback! The small can of spray foam was from Home Depot. It’s called Great Stuff. They sell larger kits too which is what I used on the rest of my van.

[@rogerstarkey5390]

By screwing the bed slats both ends you removed all the spring from the slats. Alternate the slats, let them overlap and screw one end.

[@shaunwilkens]

The screws went into the rubber holder at the ends. Plenty of flexibility and spring

[@goy1849]

Really hope you're still working on this!

[@shaunwilkens]

I am! Had some trips and lost momentum but a new video is in the works!

[@caseybradeson9971]

What size extrusion did you use? Is that 1.5 inch?

[@shaunwilkens]

Yes, it measure 1.5 inches

[@caravanheld]

Nice👌

[@kayakerpaddler2023]

Great videos! For your floor, did you simply install the vinyl over the factory “rubber” mat? That would make it easy enough for us low skilled folks! How is it holding up? Thanks for the helpful info!

[@kimmarcus4099]

Shaun I'm ready to follow your lead. However, do you feel the 4" x 4" was the lightest option you could go with? It has been suggested by others that I should go as light as possible and that many DIYers may go too heavy. I'm looking for your 20/20 hindsight here. Love what you did.

[@chrishardeen1017]

Who did you source your aluminum extrusions from? Price?

[@shaunwilkens]

They were given to me from someone who used them for a project then no longer needed them. I would guess it’s best to find a local distributor rather than buying online since shipping could be rather expensive.

[@1monagale]

Wow, thanks for sharing,I am inspired I can do this!

[@crankyoldbutchbuildsout2013]

This is great Shaun, where can I buy the extruded aluminum? Nobody seems to carry that shape or does it matter? Thanks☮️🥳

[@sportfuture]

nice build, just wondering you 6f+ tall, you dont fit to the van fully, so you sleep across the bed? Why not to choose only single bed instead king size? thanx.

[@shaunwilkens]

I can fit on one side of the bed and the other is just a little too short. I went with a queen size because I hope to not be alone forever. :)

[@VitorSilva-kr8vg]

Hi Shaun, great job 👍🏾 Are the aluminum frame 80/20 correct? Did you buy directly from them or locally like home Depot?

[@mingueyox]

is it your aluminium extrusion a 2020?

[@shaunwilkens]

It’s a bit older than that but the profile of the aluminum is the same

[@mingueyox]

@@shaunwilkens sorry for my Franglish 😅

[@pashabulker12]

How come you aren't going to allow for your scooter in this build? Didn't use it much? Also did the scooter make your previous van smell of petrol?

[@matthewjswider]

I used that flooring in my last van. Absolute dogsh*t. How’s it working out for you? I’m just curious because maybe I didn’t get it hammered in perfectly? My entry way started splitting almost immediately after I put it down.

[@shaunwilkens]

I wouldn’t use it again. If you start to get sand in the cracks it’s difficult to keep from separating. Going with Lonseal for future builds

[@MurdaIncorporated]

Hey man, did you get those Flares for the van in the US?

[@shaunwilkens]

Yep, picked them up at will call in Portland, OR

[@fedorp4713]

This is the first time I've ever heard of mold being a problem with plywood beds. RV manufacturers have been using plywood for beds since RVs were a thing. I have had problems with those slats you're using, they sag and break.

[@anthonvanderneut]

I see you didn't use the band that was originally in the middle of the slats. You might want to install that as it helps distributing a force applied to one onto its neighbours. Not that there is a big change of someone standing on the bed...

[@shaunwilkens]

Good to know! I’ll see if I can track those straps down and add them

[@kikac565]

You can use t-nuts instead of ruining extrusion...

[@ladytradiej8027]

Jeepers there won't be much head room when there's a mattress on it. Great idea doing aluminium.

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks! The head room is a little more than my last van so I can’t complain too much :)

[@humbertozea1498]

Well done! Quick question, did you add any insulation under the floor?

[@shaunwilkens]

Thanks! I didn’t end up insulating the floor. My reason was that I didn’t want to lose any height. In my experience from my previous build, most of the heat loss/gain came from the walls and ceiling.

[@U2JEN2U]

SEVEN OSAVAGE used the Aluminum Extrusion in his bed build too if anyone needs another resource or idea.This one is WAYYY easier and better.

[@qwertyuiopasdfghjkl2556]

You forgot to place an insulation liner under your floor it prevents cracking moisture buildup and reflects heat

[@shaunwilkens]

Did that on my last van. Didn’t make a difference

[@nhathuyle5407]

Are you build Van for the people too or just for you. I like you build my van. Could you?

[@shaunwilkens]

Possibly! I have another build coming up but we can definitely explore that idea.

[@nhathuyle5407]

@@shaunwilkens Are you in the USA . next year sometine i buy me a Van then i contact you to buid my Van. Can i ?

[@shaunwilkens]

@Nhat Huy Le Sure thing!

[@nhathuyle5407]

@@shaunwilkens Could you please give me your email so I can contact you for my van build by you. My is Emails : [e-mail]

[@beckyelliott2871]

Have you thought of going into business doing custom projects for people who are not able to build things like you do?

[@shoshanae3830]

Aluminum is a good idea. Ur vid is a bit dark. Next time put some lighting so we can see what you are doing. Thanks.

[@julierehoric3856]

Spray foam - ugh!

[@shaunwilkens]

Go on…